Republican presidential hopefuls faced a chilly finale on Monday as they crisscrossed Iowa for the last day of campaigning, with former President Donald Trump poised as the undisputed favorite to secure the party’s 2024 nomination. In a state where Trump’s dominance has transformed the race into a contest for second place, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley are vying for a pivotal runner-up finish to position themselves as the primary alternative to Trump.
Addressing supporters at a diner in Des Moines, Nikki Haley emphasized the significance of the moment, stating, “This is showtime. This is what we’ve been waiting for.”
A decisive victory for Trump in Iowa would bolster his argument as the sole Republican capable of challenging Democratic President Joe Biden in the upcoming November election. This scenario could spell trouble for his challengers, particularly Ron DeSantis, who has heavily invested in the Iowa caucus, touring all 99 counties in a bid to secure a pivotal win.
For DeSantis, a third-place finish could be detrimental to his prospects, especially with polls showing him trailing behind Trump and Haley in the more moderate state of New Hampshire, where Republicans will choose their nominee in eight days.
Both DeSantis and Haley expressed confidence in exceeding expectations in Iowa, though neither has outright predicted victory. DeSantis asserted on CNN, “I am the candidate who will be the change agent in Washington, D.C.”
While Trump is expected to spend the day doing radio interviews and meeting with staff, he plans to visit one caucus site in the evening before heading to his watch party in Des Moines.
Weather and Voter Turnout Concerns
The Midwest’s life-threatening cold, forcing campaign event cancellations over the weekend, may impact voter turnout on Monday. Iowa’s unique caucus system requires voters to gather in person in small groups, casting secret ballots after speeches from campaign representatives.
Iowa Republican Party Chair Jeff Kaufmann highlighted the potential impact of campaign speeches due to weather-related event cancellations. The frigid temperatures, with a wind chill predicted to reach minus 45 degrees Fahrenheit in some areas, could discourage voters.
Adding a layer of uncertainty is the potential influence of Democratic voters registering as Republicans to impact the caucus results. Toni Van Voorhis, a 65-year-old “crossover voter” supporting Nikki Haley, stated, “I just want to be able to look back and say I did what I could to keep Donald Trump from getting elected.”
Historical Significance and Potential Wild Cards
Iowa’s historical significance in presidential campaigns, being the first state in the nation to vote, often sets the tone for the race. The state has seen campaigns rise or fall based on performance in the caucuses.
A wild card this year is the reshuffled Democratic nominating calendar, with Iowa Democrats holding caucuses for party business but not voting for presidential candidates. The results will be released in March.
Entertainment mogul Jeffrey Katzenberg and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker are set to speak in Iowa later on Monday, adding to the political landscape.
Conclusion
As the candidates wrap up their campaigns, the focus turns to the Iowa caucuses starting at 7 p.m. CST, with results expected a few hours later. With Trump’s commanding lead in national polls and the weather posing challenges, Iowa’s outcome will set the stage for the Republican race in the coming months. The state’s historical significance and unique caucus system make it a critical battleground for the candidates seeking to secure the party’s nomination.
Dear Iowa,
— Kari Lake (@KariLake) January 15, 2024
When you go to Caucus later today, REMEMBER this photo.
Remember everything this man endures for US.
Remember everything he’s done to Save America before & just IMAGINE all he will do to Save Her again.
Remember this…
& CAUCUS FOR TRUMP! 🇺🇸
MAGA!
-Kari ♥️ pic.twitter.com/xMWrlKOfGa
